Marie Ali

University Degree Title: Politics and Sociology
Host University: University of Alberta
Year of Study Abroad: 2009/2010

Where did you live? Would you recommend it?

I opted for a room at Schaffer Hall in Lister Centre and would definitely recommend it to anyone staying in Edmonton. The place itself is very quiet (especially at exam times), multifunctional (gym, café, piano room, etc) and close to most departments.

Which department(s) did you study in?

All my courses for credit were taken at the political science and sociology departments. However, I also picked up two practical courses from outside my degree subject (for my own interest) at the music department.

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to Sheffield?

Most exchange students that I knew were often complaining about how studying in Alberta was harder, not realising that they were oversimplifying things. It would not be accurate to say that our courses were more difficult. On the contrary, I have always been satisfied with the wide range of courses proposed at the UofA which permitted me to take academic courses for my own interest. However, if I talk about the quantitative aspect of education then I must admit it is quite another story. If compared to Sheffield, we had very condensed terms and demanding academic programmes. Most professors expected us to write 1-2 midterms (papers/exams), 1-2 term papers and a final exam in December/April. I believe it was this aspect that primarily made my study time more challenging and stressful.

Lectures at the UofA appeared to be more of a combination of seminars and traditional lecture format. I particularly enjoyed the fact that students were free to interact with their professors.

What did you do for fun/ at weekends / holidays?

In October I went on a road trip with a couple of friends and later on to Vancouver for the Olympics. Till today I remain just as moved by the level of passion and pride that has been expressed during these Winter Games. Besides this Olympic mood, it is difficult to describe how gorgeous Vancouver is. It is quite easy to live in the city; its people are extremely helpful and constantly smiling, and its sumptuous frame locates the city between the ocean and the mountains. You thus could easily go skiing to Whistler after a tough day, go for a bike ride up to Stanley Park, have a night out with your friends on busy Davie Street, or even take the ferry to Vancouver Island and experience the European charm à l´américaine of the city of Victoria. Simply said, Vancouver embraces all lifestyles; therefore, it is hard not to find something suitable for your very specific way of enjoying things.

Did you join any societies or clubs?

Most of the clubs I adhered to were international student groups run by the union. I also joined the Outdoors Club but never got a chance to go on any of their organised trips.

Describe the University/City/things to do

I have actually been very surprised to find out that such a big city like Edmonton lacks basic social and cultural infrastructures. There is no real place of interest, which can be a bit upsetting at first especially when you´re used to living in a busy city. Nevertheless, there are plenty of ways to have fun if you use your mind and creativity. For instance, I have been volunteering at "Changing Together" – a centre for immigrant women – in Edmonton, where I have been assigned to lead parental workshops for parents raising children within two cultures.

Could you give any travel or immigration tips?

If you are flying with Air Canada from the UK to Edmonton, be aware that the regular baggage allowance has changed since January 2010 (1 bag, max. weight 23kg).

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to go or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance?

Be ready for dry weather this summer and extreme wind chills in winter!

Would you say it is cheaper or more expensive to live than Sheffield?

All your living expenses will be a lot less than in Sheffield.